A rare mid-Qing polychrome enameled rhyton / stirrup cup in the form of an ox head, with curved horns covered with aubergine colored glaze and joined with a raised rope of green hue, the eyes wide open above a green rope leading to the animals nostril on one side, and the fur depicted by a brown-orange tone wash with small lines.

This unusual form is based on the 18-19th century European stirrup cup, which in turn was derived from the even earlier Greecian rhyton cups. Generally in the form of animal heads, these cups were designed to amuse and delight in the uproarious consumption of alcohol. They were often used during aristocratic hunts, during which riders—still in their stirrups—would be presented with punch.

Please note that this piece comes with extremely excellent provenance: it was sold by Bluett & Sons London in the early 20th century, and then by Sotheby’s New York in the 1980s.
Custom-made hardwood display stand included.

Condition report: the main porcelain body is perfect. However, the raised decorations have various original manufacturing flaws: stress firing cracks to the horns, with significant glaze fritting throughout, and some enamel wear (please consult the detailed pictures; they are part of the condition report).